What is the purpose of the electoral college?
Instead of using popular vote, like other elections do, the electoral college is used to elect the president and the vice president of America. When a citizen goes to vote for the president, they are actually voting for electors, who vote for the president. There are 530 total electors, with each state getting at least 3, and the rest being based on population size. In most states, the party that wins the state’s popular vote sends all of their electors to cast votes to elect the president. However, in Main and Nebraska, they divide up their electoral votes based on who won the popular vote in each congressional district.
Why do some people not think we should have the electoral college?
People who oppose the electoral college argue that it doesn’t represent the voice of the people. They argue that it makes an individual's vote count less if they live in a more populated state, and makes their vote count more if they live in swing states. It also makes it difficult for 3rd party members to win, since it is very unlikely that a state will have the majority vote for that candidate. five presidential candidates have also won the popular vote, but lost the electoral vote. Many find that this should not be the case, and that the majority of the people should be the deciding factor of the presidential election.
What are the pros of the electoral college?
There are some pros to the electoral college, including that it ensures the opinions of individuals living in smaller states. Many argue that it is also essential for the checks and balances system that is in America. It ensures that the state government, and not federal, is in charge if electing the new president. It also avoids a strong central government, which goes against America’s ideals. Many think that a strong central government would crush American rights.
What would America look like without the electoral college?
Without the electoral college, the president would be elected through popular vote. Popular vote would ensure that the voice of the people is heard, and not just the majority of a state. However, there is a flaw in this. Candidates would spend less time considering the will of those living in more rural areas, all of their campaigning would go towards large populated cities. Even though this is true, people’s vote would count more. Each individual would have the same power as the next, and the system would make more people be heard. Though the electoral college may have been useful with a less populated America, there is no need for it with today’s America.